Originated in Gujarat, garba is similar to Social Dancing. The literal meaning of Graba is inside the earthenware lamp. It comes from the Sanskrit word Garba Deep.

It is performed during Navratris - the nine auspicious nights - wherein the Goddess Ambaji is worshipped. Goddess Amba is the one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga - the main diety.For the dance the Ambajis Idol is placed in the middle of the circle of boys and gils. The entire dance goes round and round the Goddess Idol. The modern Garba is a reflection of the Ras Dance.

The Garbo or the earthen pots has holes in it all around. Light within signifies Knowledge. The Concept of Garbo is linked to microcosm and macro- cosm. Moving around in circle signifies the never ending cicle of creation, maintenanace and destruction of the human body and things around it. The songs used in the dance are the traditional Gujarati songs sung by Gujarat Singers.

The Dance Form of Garba:

Garba dance is the one which hails from Saurashtra - one part out of the four parts of Gujarat. Garba songs are in prais e of the Goddess Amba describing her Strenth, power and her beauty. Social Themes and seasons also make a part of the Garba Songs.Damru, Tabla, Nagara, pot drum, percussion, Ektaro, Ravan hattho, Jantar, Pavo, shehani, murli, turi, and taturi are the musical instruments used in Garba Dance.

Modern Garba also includes Ras Dance. Dancing in Circle by men and women is the main feature of the Garba Dance. Three variety of Garba Dance are described -

• Dandia Ras - In this sticks or dandas are used for dance.

• Mandala - Clapping is used in this dance form.

• Lata Rasaka - Dancers cling to each other and dance like a creeper to a tree.

Dress used in Garba:

Kamkha - Traditional blouse with embroidery in the front and the back open.

Chudla - The bangle sworn by the dancers are known as Chudla.

Kedia - High waist tops with Dhotis make this a festive dress for men.

Mojdee - Hand made pure leather shoes worn with the traditional dress.